Burma

7 Pages 1652 Words

BURMA (The Union of Myanmar)




The concept of human rights has existed for many centuries. People all around the world called on their rulers to rule justly and compassionately, and were eventually given rights on their own lives, properties and activities. However, even today, there are people whose human rights have been taken away from them by dictators and their governments. Burma (Myanmar) is one of those countries. For decades, its people have been facing terrible human rights violations, along with suffering the consequences of the deeds of a vicious tyrant, Ne Win.


In 1948 Burma gained its independence, ending over six decades of British colonization (1886-1948). However, the worst was yet to come. By the mid 1950s the central government had control over the country, although the economy was deteriorating. A country that was once wealthy and rich in resources was being economically destroyed.


In 1962 Ne Win took power and announced a new policy, “The Burmese Road to Socialism”. Ne Win retired as president of the republic in 1981, but retained the position as the chairman of the Burma Socialist Programme Party (BSPP), thus he continued to influence politics. The economy was still in decline through the 1980’s because nearly half of the government’s revenue was being given to the army. During the years of 1987 and 1988, the Burmese people demonstrated against the inefficient regime, demanding Ne Win’s removal from politics. He resigned in July 1988, yet the pro-democracy protests still continued.


Ne Win’s National Unity Party (formerly known as the BSPP) did not want to give up power. A military coup took place in September 1988, which is believed to be organized by Ne Win; it brought the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC). This organization enforced martial law and promised to hold democratic elections. The SLORC then changed the country’s name to the Union of Myanmar.
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